In the early days of streaming, every TV series and film that debuted had its time to shine, with enough gap between releases for audiences to discover them. Granted, not everything was fantastic or widely appreciated, but it was tough for a show to slip under the radar entirely. As a passionate movie buff, I remember those times vividly.
With an overwhelming number of around a million streaming apps constantly releasing new shows, viewers tend to concentrate on popular or already successful content, often overlooking hidden gems. For every hit like “Stranger Things”, there are numerous other shows that struggle to make an impact after their debut. As you delve deeper into the content of any particular streaming service, you’re likely to discover forgotten titles that have been around for quite some time.
Discover ten lesser-known TV shows that might not be on your radar yet. Some of these series were buzzed about when they first aired but may have been forgotten since then. These shows, which can be found on streaming platforms, have possibly amassed fans over time, and some of you might be among them. However, many others never quite gained traction. Here are ten TV shows, including those with multiple seasons, that you may not have come across before.
Obscure Streaming TV Shows You Might Not Have Heard Of
A.P. Bio
The witty classroom comedy “A.P. Bio,” produced by NBC and Peacock, didn’t receive the recognition it should have during its broadcast, despite boasting a talented cast (Glenn Howerton, Patton Oswalt) and production team that includes Lorne Michaels and Seth Meyers. In the series, Glenn Howerton plays Jack Griffin, a former Harvard philosophy professor who, after losing his esteemed position, returns to his hometown and accepts the task of teaching the Advanced Placement biology class at his local high school. Always devising ways to retaliate against those who wronged him, he informs his students that he will not be teaching them any biology and instead aims to exploit their academic prowess to exact revenge on his adversaries.
Calls
As a passionate cinephile, I’m excited to share that I, Fede Álvarez, am the visionary behind the American adaptation of “Calls” – an innovative audio-driven series. This gripping show lets you immerse yourself in phone conversations among characters, their personal turmoil often amplified by a pending catastrophic event. An intriguing early production for Apple TV+, it’s a remake of a French series with a similar format. The star-studded cast includes talented voices like Lily Collins, Danny Pudi, Clancy Brown, Pedro Pascal, and more. Each episode is a standalone story that subtly contributes to a larger, enigmatic narrative hinting at supernatural elements.
Mosaic
Occasionally, Steven Soderbergh explores television, and even the attempts that don’t quite succeed are still captivating. The production of Mosaic, which emerged during the period when tech firms and streaming services were trying to discover the next major trend in entertainment (remember Quibi?), was one such experiment. This murder mystery series primarily used an app, allowing viewers to choose their viewpoint for each event and navigate through a complex timeline to understand what each character is doing and when. Since not many people want to invest that much time into watching TV shows, it was eventually released on HBO in a more conventional episodic format.
Mrs. Davis
Perhaps it was the extravagance that prevented Mrs. Davis from amassing a larger fanbase, yet it is as eccentric and inventive as anything one might anticipate from co-creator Damon Lindelof. This limited series features Betty Gilpin portraying Sister Simone, a nun who faces an artificially intelligent program called Mrs. Davis that has harmoniously taken over the world as her sworn enemy. Convinced that the app is responsible for her father’s demise, Sister Simone insists on Mrs. Davis deleting itself, and the app consents under one condition: Sister Simone must locate the Holy Grail. With cowboys, charlatan magicians, malevolent Germans, enormous whales, and Arthurian legends intertwined, the narrative unfolds in such a clever manner that it seems almost unbelievable that it all fits into just 8 episodes.
Red Oaks
Located in the mid-1980s, the series named “Red Oaks” unfolds in New York City and New Jersey. The story revolves around David Myers (known for his role in “Submarine”), who secures a job as a tennis coach at a Jewish country club during his college summer break. Most of the action takes place at the Red Oaks club, providing a backdrop for the journey from adolescence to adulthood. The show captures the significant relationships and changes undergone by David, his family, friends, and coworkers during a tumultuous historical period. Steven Soderbergh is one of the executive producers, as well as David Gordon Green, known for “Eastbound and Down” and “Vice Principals”.
Scavengers Reign
The most exceptional productions often go unnoticed during their time, such as the case with the animated sci-fi series Scavengers Reign. Unfortunately, it remains a lesser-known gem, even though its entire season can be found on both Max and Netflix. This captivating show chronicles the journey of a band of castaways from a damaged spaceship stranded on an alien planet teeming with hostile lifeforms that resemble fungi. As these human refugees explore this treacherous terrain, they gradually uncover that the planet’s ecosystem is precariously balanced and at risk from the destructive forces of fear, violence, and greed that humans bring along.
Sugar
In “Sugar,” although we can’t give away its special charm, let me tell you that it catches you off guard. Colin Farrell plays the role of John Sugar, a private detective who loves classic movies and vintage cars, and finds himself in trouble when investigating the disappearance of a renowned film producer’s granddaughter. Initially, the series has the feel of an old-fashioned mystery, but as you progress through three-quarters of it, it transforms into something entirely unexpected.
Sunny
According to Colin O’Sullivan’s 2018 book, “The Dark Manual,” the movie “Sunny” features Rashida Jones as Suzie Sakamoto. Following the sudden loss of her husband and son in a plane crash, Suzie receives a household robot named Sunny from her husband’s robotics firm. However, Suzie was unaware that her husband was involved with robots at all. As she probes into her husband’s enigmatic past, with occasional assistance from Sunny, she gradually discovers a sinister plot involving robots.
Tales From the Loop
People who frequent Tumblr might recall the captivating, eerie images by Simon Stålenhag, known for his retro-futuristic digital paintings that depict massive, rusted robot giants from a past era of war or technological advancement, set against expansive natural backdrops. The art book titled “Tales From the Loop” compiling these images was picked up by Amazon Prime for a streaming series, which created a storyline centered around a small town that houses an experimental research facility. While each episode is only loosely connected and it ran just one season, its haunting ambiance makes it worth watching.
Too Old to Die Young
In the realm of television, acclaimed thriller director Nicolas Winding Refn ventured with the series “Too Old to Die Young“, a neo-noir production bathed in vibrant neon lights. The series stars Miles Teller as a cop who is compelled to team up with the individual who shot his partner, in an effort to expose a vast and brutal conspiracy that encompasses Mexican cartels, yakuza gangs, and the Russian mafia. Refn’s distinctive directing style helps to mitigate the show’s excessive machismo elements, although some viewers might find its complex and bizarre plot difficult to follow. Unfortunately, it only ran for one season. Fans of Refn’s work will know what they’re getting into, while others may be intrigued by the extended, chase-filled episode where Teller is pursued by a pair of shady pornographers.
Forgotten ’90s Movies You Need to See
Guilty As Sin (1993)
Sidney Lumet, renowned for his gritty New York crime thrillers like “Dog Day Afternoon” and “12 Angry Men,” as well as socially conscious dramas, and Larry Cohen, a master of exploitation films, appear to be an unusual creative pair. Yet, they managed to collaborate effectively. The film, “Guilty As Sin,” originates from an intriguing concept, a reversal of “Basic Instinct” where a female lawyer (Rebecca De Mornay) becomes captivated by the prime suspect (Don Johnson) in the murder of his wife. Lumet primarily maintains a serious tone and allows his actors to guide the film’s direction. Interestingly, he transforms the entire movie into a platform for Don Johnson to shine as an unforgettable gigolo. In one scene, a woman offers to buy him a drink in a bar. He declines her offer, instead asking her to pay for the drink he’s already consuming, then promptly leaves her with his empty glass and the bill. The audience can’t help but anticipate this character receiving his just desserts.
Lone Star (1996)
John Sayles, a renowned and impactful independent filmmaker during the 1980s and 1990s, has seen his output decrease significantly in the 2000s, with his last movie released in 2013. This apparent slowdown seems to have affected his popularity among younger cinema enthusiasts. One of Sayles’ most celebrated films, “Lone Star,” was one of the top-rated movies of 1996 and was also a successful arthouse release that year. It showcased Matthew McConaughey in an early role as a legendary Texas sheriff. Years after the sheriff’s demise, the discovery of human remains triggers an investigation led by the sheriff’s son (Chris Cooper), which could reveal disturbing truths about the town. “Lone Star” is a captivating mystery and a thoughtful critique of the myths surrounding small-town America.
The Man in the Moon (1991)
Reese Witherspoon’s breakthrough roles in “Election” and “Cruel Intentions” solidified her as a star, but her exceptional talent was evident even in her very first film appearance. At just 14 years old, she took on the lead role in the moving indie drama “The Man in the Moon,” set in 1950s Louisiana, where she portrayed a young girl navigating her first crush (played by Jason London). Despite being her debut film, Witherspoon carried herself with the poise of an experienced screen actress. Those who watched this movie in the early 1990s likely wouldn’t have been taken aback when she achieved major movie stardom later on.
Night Falls on Manhattan (1996)
Delve into another masterpiece by Sidney Lumet! This film leans more towards his specialty, presenting a story about a promising young lawyer, portrayed by Andy Garcia, who encounters the moral decay lurking in New York’s powerful institutions. Although the plot is slightly excessive, Night Falls on Manhattan adopts an understated approach to its subject matter. Contrary to expectations, the anticipated major trial concludes promptly, giving way to a thorough exploration of how ambition and politics corrupt our justice system. The cast boasts future stars from The Sopranos, including Dominic Chianese, Frank Vincent, and James Gandolfini, portraying a police officer with a sinister side.
One False Move (1992)
Despite Sling Blade being Billy Bob Thornton’s breakout role in Hollywood, it was made possible due to his previous work. A few years beforehand, he co-wrote and starred in the excellent crime drama One False Move. This film also launched the directorial career of Carl Franklin, who went on to have a long stint behind the camera. In this movie, Thornton portrays one of three criminals (Cynda Williams and Michael Beach play the others), who are on the run from LA, trying to evade the law and sell drugs in the South. Meanwhile, an Arkansas policeman (Bill Paxton) with a potential link to these characters starts tracking them down. One False Move is a bleak, gritty, and melancholic film that can be compared favorably to its more famous counterparts from the ’90s crime genre.
The Paper (1994)
This lesser-known movie directed by Ron Howard in the ’90s, often overlooked compared to hits like “Backdraft,” “Apollo 13,” and “Ransom,” could potentially be his finest work of the decade. It’s a vibrant ensemble piece that delves into the intricate mechanisms of a bustling city newspaper. Michael Keaton plays the exhausted editor of a New York City tabloid, whose relentless pursuit of a story jeopardizes both his career and marriage. If you’re a fan of investigative journalist movies, this one is highly recommended, with an exceptional cast that includes Robert Duvall, Glenn Close, Jason Alexander, Marisa Tomei, and Jason Robards.
The Red Violin (1998)
A more intriguing choice for a list of overlooked masterpieces could be the movie that narrates the tale of a centuries-lost violin, uniquely known as “The Red Violin.” This uncommon blend of mystery and anthology films takes us on a journey spanning several centuries, from its inception in the 17th century up to its auction in Montreal during the late ’90s. A collection of short stories, or vignettes, portrays different episodes in the violin’s life, including visits to Vienna, Oxford, and Shanghai. In a remarkable performance, Samuel L. Jackson plays the quiet appraiser who uncovers a significant secret about “The Red Violin.
Reversal of Fortune (1990)
The 1990s were a time of exceptional legal thrillers such as this one, which reenacts the notorious Claus von Bülow case. Jeremy Irons earned an Oscar for his portrayal of von Bülow, while director Barbet Schroeder skillfully examines the case from various angles without explicitly vindicating his controversial protagonist. Although Ron Silver’s Alan Dershowitz persists in arguing his client’s innocence, Schroeder is more focused on delving into the elusive concept of reasonable doubt. Glenn Close gives an indelible performance as Sunny von Bülow, despite narrating most of the film from a vegetative state. Although the real Sunny remained comatose until her passing in 2008, Close gets to deliver the movie’s chilling final lines, and they are truly spine-tingling.
The Spanish Prisoner (1998)
The Spanish Prisoner – A Mind-Bending Con Artist Film
In this intricate con man movie, David Mamet provides a memorable script, while the diverse cast includes Campbell Scott, Ben Gazzara, Ricky Jay, Ed O’Neill, and Steve Martin. The protagonist, Joe (played by Scott), has developed a mysterious device that could potentially be worth a small fortune. Coincidentally, Martin’s character, Jimmy, a wealthy businessman, shows an unexpected interest in the inventor. However, can you trust those around Joe? Are they all trying to swindle him? But who is the Spanish prisoner? It’s just a nickname for an old trick used in a confidence scheme – no one actually exists by that name.
Sudden Death (1995)
Trial and Error (1997)
In the ’90s, many stars from popular sitcoms struggled in movies, both critically and financially. However, this unusual gem emerged during that time – a comedy that uses a courtroom setting as a spin-off of “Kindergarten Cop”, featuring Michael Richards from “Seinfeld” as a man forced to play a lawyer because his best friend (Jeff Daniels) was too drunk after his bachelor party to attend a hearing. It’s a rare example of the screwball comedy genre we don’t see often nowadays, and it also marks one of Charlize Theron’s early appearances on the big screen.
The Two Jakes (1990)
The Two Jakes”
In essence, “The Two Jakes” may seem like an unnecessary sequel if you’ve not seen it, but once viewed, it sheds light on a question you might have only half-heard. Set post-events of “Chinatown,” Jake Gittes (portrayed by Jack Nicholson, who also directed) finds himself ensnared in a convoluted case involving a client (Harvey Keitel), whom he suspects was involved in a premeditated murder. As his investigation unfolds, Gittes uncovers links to his own past. Plagued by production issues and ultimately becoming an infamous flop, “The Two Jakes,” penned by the original “Chinatown” screenwriter Robert Towne, offers a poignant, melancholic narrative about the pitfalls of dwelling on the past. The final line of “Chinatown” is memorable, but the final line of “The Two Jakes” – “It never goes away” – might be equally chilling.
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2025-02-19 19:56